The tropical storm known as Milton has intensified recently, now boasting winds reaching up to 53 mph (85 km/h) as it makes its slow but determined progress toward Florida's west coast. According to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Milton was located approximately 355 miles (565 km) west-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, and about 845 miles (1,360 km) west-southwest of Tampa, Florida, as of 5:00 a.m. local time. The storm is currently moving at a sluggish pace of 5 mph (7 km/h).
Meteorologists have warned that Milton might escalate into a hurricane by Sunday night, with the possibility of evolving into a major hurricane while it navigates through the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico. The latest data from the National Hurricane Center suggests that Milton will maintain its east-northeast trajectory over the next two days, before accelerating northeastward.
The forecast anticipates that the storm could reach Florida's west coast by midweek, potentially bringing heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding. A NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft is en route to investigate Tropical Storm Milton, which poses an increasing threat to life along Florida's western shoreline.
Current Alerts and Warnings
A tropical storm warning is in effect for the region stretching from Celestún to Cancún on the Yucatán Peninsula, indicating that tropical storm conditions could occur in the area within the next 48 hours. Additionally, parts of the Florida Peninsula, the Keys, and the northwestern Bahamas should monitor the storm's development closely, as Milton is expected to strengthen in the coming days.
Associated Hazards
Rainfall: The Florida Peninsula and the Keys could experience rainfall accumulations ranging from 5 to 8 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 12 inches, heightening the risk of flash floods, urban flooding, and river overflow. Northern regions of the Yucatán Peninsula and western Cuba are also forecasted to receive rain.
Surf: Swells generated by Milton are anticipated to impact the southwestern Gulf of Mexico coast beginning today, spreading northward and eastward. These conditions could create dangerous surf and strong wave activity.